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Liquid Biopsy Technology in Cancer Research and Metastatic Signaling

University of Patras

Associate Professor Galatea Kallergi is a leading researcher in the field of cancer biology, with a specialized focus on liquid biopsy, circulating tumor cells (CTCs), and metastatic signaling. Based at the Department of Biology, University of Patras, Greece, she brings over two decades of experience in translational oncology. Her pioneering work has contributed significantly to understanding the molecular and phenotypic characteristics of CTCs and their role in cancer progression, drug resistance, and immune evasion. With an extensive publication record, international collaborations, and expertise in both fundamental and applied cancer research, Professor Kallergi is committed to mentoring the next generation of scientists in precision oncology.

This 6-week onsite fellowship, hosted at the University of Patras by Associate Professor Galatea Kallergi, offers a focused exploration of liquid biopsy technologies in cancer research, with a strong emphasis on Circulating Tumor Cells (CTCs) and Extracellular Vesicles (EVs). Fellows will gain in-depth exposure to cutting-edge techniques for isolation, phenotypic characterization, molecular profiling, and drug response testing using patient-derived samples. The program integrates theoretical grounding with practical lab training and is ideal for those interested in translational oncology, metastasis research, and the development of precision medicine strategies.

Main Areas of Interest

verview of Liquid Biopsy (LB)

Types of analytes:

Circulating Tumor Cells (CTCs)
Extracellular Vesicles (EVs)

1. Characteristics and properties of CTCs and EVs

2. Role of CTCs and EVs in cancer progression, metastasis, and disease monitoring

Liquid Biopsy Applications in Cancer Research

Isolation and molecular characterization of CTCs and EVs for disease monitoring
Integration of LB techniques to inform treatment decisions and enhance patient outcomes
Advancing precision oncology through the use of liquid biopsy in personalized medicine

Specialties

Liquid Biopsy
Circulating Tumor Cells (CTCs)
Extracellular Vesicles (EVs)
Cancer Metastasis
Precision Oncology

Specialties

Oncology

Cancer

Biochemistry

Physiology

Techniques You Will Learn

1. General Knowledge of Liquid Biopsy

Isolation and Enrichment of CTCs and EVs:Learn techniques for isolating CTCs and EVs from blood samples using size-based filtration, microfluidic platforms, and density gradient methods.
Immunofluorescence (IF) Staining: Gain experience in phenotypic characterization using established immunofluorescence staining panels.

2. Molecular and Functional Analysis

Microscopy and Imaging Techniques:Training in high-resolution imaging to visualize CTC morphology and EV structure in detail.
Molecular Analysis: Hands-on exposure to immunostaining, quantitative PCR (qPCR), and immunoblotting for studying the molecular profiles of CTCs and EVs.

3. Technology Development

Microfluidic Platforms: Practical experience with microfluidic systems for enhanced cancer cell culture and analysis.
Multi-Step Assay Development:Learn how to design sequential assays that allow analysis of multiple features in CTCs and EVs from a single patient sample to improve diagnostic accuracy.

4. Drug Response and Therapeutic Investigation

Functional Assays for Investigating Drug Impact: Training in evaluating anti-cancer drug effects on cell viability, apoptosis, and invasion potential in cancer cell lines and patient-derived samples.
Translation to Cultured CTCs: Development of experimental protocols to adapt drug response studies specifically to cultured CTCs derived from patient blood samples.
response studies for cultured CTCs derived from patient samples.

Curriculum

Sample 2-Week Curriculum

Please note: The curriculum below is a sample structure. Specific activities may vary based on the applicant’s background, ongoing lab projects, and availability of resources.

Week 1: Foundations in Liquid Biopsy and Laboratory Techniques

Day 1–2:

Orientation to the laboratory environment
Introduction to liquid biopsy concepts, including CTCs and EVs
Overview of biospecimen handling, safety protocols, and patient sample logistics

Day 3–4:

Training in blood sample processing and enrichment techniques for CTCs and EVs
Hands-on practice with size-based filtration and density gradient centrifugation
Introduction to microfluidic platforms for CTC/EV isolation

Day 5:

Basics of immunofluorescence staining for CTC identification
Use of epithelial and mesenchymal markers in cancer cell profiling

Week 2: Advanced Applications and Translational Techniques

Day 6–7:

High-resolution imaging of CTCs and EVs
Interpretation of microscopy results and digital documentation

Day 8:

Molecular analysis of CTCs/EVs (e.g., qPCR, immunoblotting)
Discussion on data reproducibility and validation

Day 9:

Functional assays to evaluate cell viability and drug responsiveness
Setting up in vitro experiments using patient-derived cells

Day 10:

Summary of findings and potential research directions
Feedback session and discussion of future collaborations/publication potential

Important Note:

This sample curriculum is intended as a general guide. The exact schedule and modules may be adjusted depending on the applicant’s educational level, research focus, and ongoing projects in the lab. Personalized learning goals can be accommodated upon discussion with the host mentor.

Accommodation

Accommodation

The participant will arrange their own accommodations close location to the institute.
You may also consider options on Airbnb.com for short-term stays.

Fees and Program Logistics

This program has the following durations available:

Duration	Fee
2 weeks	$875.00

Who Can Apply

Undergraduate, postgraduate, postdoctoral candidates are welcome. Faculty can also visit.

Host Details

Host Name: Dr.Galatea Kallergi

Affiliation: University of Patras

Address: University of Patras, 26504 Rio, Greece

Website URL: https://biology.upatras.gr/personel/kallergi/

Disclaimer:It is mandatory that all applicants carry workplace liability insurance, e.g., https://www.protrip-world-liability.com (Erasmus students use this package and typically costs around 5 € per month - please check) in addition to health insurance when you join any of the onsite Trialect partnered fellowships.

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